Christmas treat for Devon-based sailors

Image caption, HMS Cumberland is due to return to Plymouth from the Gulf in March

The crew of a Devon-based warship will not miss out on their Christmas dinner, despite being on operation providing support for troops in Afghanistan.

A navy spokesman said officers aboard HMS Cumberland would be upholding the tradition of serving Christmas dinner to the sailors.

The Type 22 frigate is temporarily working alongside the French aircraft carrier, Charles de Gaulle.

The Charles de Gaulle is providing fast jet support to soldiers on the ground.

Captain Steve Dainton, of HMS Cumberland, said: "While we will have little time off over Christmas, it is important the occasion is marked.

"The Royal Naval tradition is for officers to serve Christmas dinner.

"We will also be putting on a carol concert and I have no doubt that Santa will make an appearance."

HMS Cumberland has been on deployment in the Gulf since 31 October.

The frigate is due to return to Plymouth's Devonport naval base in March.

It has been earmarked for decommissioning in the summer as part of the government's Strategic Defence and Security Review.